Heart Health News

Gelatin Allergy May Mean Extra Care Is Needed With Flu Shot

FRIDAY, Nov. 8 (HealthDay News) -- If you're allergic to gummy
bears or marshmallows, you may need to be careful when getting a
flu shot.

Those sweet treats contain gelatin and can trigger a reaction in
people with gelatin allergy. Flu shots also contain gelatin and can
cause a mild to severe reaction in people with a gelatin allergy,
one expert said.

"Gelatin is used in the flu shot, as well as other vaccines, as a stabilizer. Because it is found in the vaccine, those with a known allergy to gelatin can experience allergic reactions, such as hives, sneezing and difficulty breathing," allergist Dr. Stephanie Albin said in an American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) news release.

"Because of this, precautions should be taken, such as having a board-certified allergist administer the vaccine in a person with known gelatin allergy in case a reaction occurs," Albin added.

The problem was highlighted in a case report presented Friday at
the ACAAI's annual meeting. Research presented at medical meetings
should be viewed as preliminary until published in a peer-reviewed
journal.

Gelatin can contain proteins derived from cows, pigs or fish. It
is found in a variety of foods and drugs.

"Gelatin allergy is very rare," ACAAI President Dr. Richard Weber said in the news release. "Many food intolerances can be mistaken as allergies. Those who believe they might have an allergy should be tested and diagnosed by an allergist before taking extreme avoidance measures or skipping vaccinations. The flu shot is an important vaccine and can even be lifesaving for individuals that are at an increased risk for severe side effects associated with the flu."

Many people mistakenly believe that people with an egg allergy
should not get a flu shot. However, the ACAAI says that even people
with a severe egg allergy can receive a flu vaccination without
special precautions.

More information

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has more
about
flu vaccination.

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.